Contact info

For quite some time now Lebo’s Soweto Backpacker has been the go-to rest stop for out-of-towners visiting Soweto. The vibe is brilliant, there’s always something to do and the food is authentically – you guessed it – African. There’s free Wi-Fi but with so much vibrancy in and around Lebo’s there’d be no time to update your social media accounts. We highly recommend this little spot.

Curiosity Backpackers

Maboneng is one of the most important cultural hubs in Johannesburg City and is home to one of the coolest hostels in town. Curiosity Backpackers is filled with travellers from all over the world who soak up the street art, zamalek (Black Label beer) and the lekker local food on offer.

The Birches Backpackers

Close to Northcliff Corner and close to the Irish Club in Linden the Birches Backpackers has the African fires burning bright. This lodge has won two Sleep Out awards in 2015 and deserves the praise that comes with those accolades. Birches is a home away from home and a great place to let your hair down and lay your head to rest for the night.

Backpacker’s Ritz

Everything you need in a hostel can be found at the Backpacker’s Ritz: clean, friendly and safe. The Ritz is perfect for those who are couch surfing their way across the planet as it is fitted with the basic necessities one would expect from the longest running hostel in Johannesburg. It boasts a big swimming pool and a bar in the “dungeon”. Get yourself there already!

Margaret’s Place

There’s a very good reason why Margaret’s Place is one of the most popular speciality lodgings in Johannesburg. The Wi-Fi is good, the area is safe and the hospitality is from the top shelf. All steps have been taken to ensure a great stay while at Margaret’s.

Have we missed your favourite backpacker/hostel/dorm around town? Let us know in the comments section below… and while you’re at it, show this to your travelling buddy.

By Shawn Greyling

Did you like this article? Then get more of the same from our weekly newsletter delivered to your inbox for FREE!